Food charity supports record 12,000 people

Derby Food 4 Thought Alliance has revealed it supported a record 12,000 people over the final three months of last year.

The Charnwood Street charity said from September to December it provided adults and children with meals, food parcels and hampers.

Its efforts were backed by a number of Marketing Derby Bondholders, including Nielsen McAllister, Alstom, Derby County and Rolls-Royce.

According to Paul Brookhouse, manager at the Derby charity, this equated to over £150,000 worth of food.

He said: “Our extremely small team co-ordinated with partners 5,758 food parcels, 300 hampers, and prepared meals for thousands of people in need.

“The support we received from local people, schools and wonderful businesses has been enormously helpful.”

D4FTA is continuing to see people struggle to feed their families.

To meet this challenge, the charity is issuing a fresh appeal for food donations.

Paul said: “We are currently in the coldest quarter of the year and people are still coming to us for help.

“Our phone line rings constantly, and we are always working with our partners to deliver food parcels to people.

“Everyone has been so generous and kind – but please don’t forget about us.”

The charity is welcoming new donations and reminding businesses about its 100 Club.

Launched last year, firms willing to donate £100 a month over 12 months, can join the charitable giving scheme and help DF4T with much needed funds.

Paul said: “I have been extremely humbled by the response from Derby people to date.

“One day, I hope we can reach a time when our service isn’t required but while there is a need, we must do what we can to support.

“I would like to say a huge thank you to those who have helped us so far and to those who are able to continue this please do, we still need all the support we can get.”

Those interested in supporting the 100 Club campaign or making a donation can contact Paul on 01332 227730 or e-mail info@df4ta.com.